
via Imago
NEW YORK, NY – FEBRUARY 04: Amanda Serrano reacts after defeating Erika Cruz to become the undisputed featherweight champion of the world on February 4, 2023 at the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York. Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire BOXING: FEB 04 Serrano vs Cruz Icon23020413337

via Imago
NEW YORK, NY – FEBRUARY 04: Amanda Serrano reacts after defeating Erika Cruz to become the undisputed featherweight champion of the world on February 4, 2023 at the Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden in New York. Photo by Rich Graessle/Icon Sportswire BOXING: FEB 04 Serrano vs Cruz Icon23020413337
In a world where weight classes are boxing’s cardinal rule, Amanda Serrano defies the norm. Imagine sparring with someone 20 pounds heavier. Now, picture that person being undefeated junior welterweight Matthew ‘Lefty Gunz’ Gonzalez. Serrano, a champion known for shattering ceilings, did exactly that.
Her recent tweet hints at an intense, “twisted” sparring session. But what does “twisted” mean in the boxing world? And why would a featherweight spar with a much heavier male boxer? What does this unusual choice say about her?
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Amanda Serrano takes on ‘Lefty Gunz’ in a David vs. Goliath session
Amanda Serrano’s tweet unveils a remarkable narrative of resilience and daring. “8 rds of Good Sparring today w/my fighter, the undefeated 140lb Mathew ‘Lefty Gunz’ Gonzalez 13-0-8ko’s,” she wrote. The tweet, accompanied by an old photo of the pair, alludes to a rigorous session. Serrano humorously adds, “We both came out twisted now so no live pic today 🤣.” Importantly, Gonzalez, typically a 140-pound fighter, was 160 pounds during their sparring, presenting a significant challenge.
8 rds of Good Sparring today w/my fighter, the undefeated 140lb
Mathew ‘Lefty Gunz’ Gonzalez 13-0-8ko’s
This is an old picture of us. We both came out twisted now so no live pic today 🤣He’s 160lbs now but still Fast & Sharp
I found that out the hard way 😜 pic.twitter.com/rzD508C2dd— Amanda Serrano (@Serranosisters) January 20, 2024
Matthew Gonzalez is no ordinary sparring partner. Boasting an impressive 13-0 record with 8 knockouts, he recently claimed a victory over Terrell Bostic. His prowess in the ring is undeniable, and sparring with him, especially at a 20-pound weight advantage, speaks volumes of Serrano’s commitment to pushing her limits.
Moreover, this isn’t Serrano’s first foray into training with male boxers. Her career is marked by instances where she chose to spar with men, a testament to her belief in testing herself against diverse and challenging opponents. This approach not only showcases her relentless pursuit of excellence but also aligns with her advocacy for equality and recognition in women’s boxing.
Not so long ago she detailed how sparring with men is.
No easy fights!
Amanda Serrano’s path to boxing supremacy has been anything but conventional. Embracing a no-holds-barred approach, she divulged, “On my come up in the sport I paid my dues. I only sparred/spar men & they were/are instructed to treat me like an equal.” This unorthodox training method wasn’t without its toll, as evidenced by her sharing a picture of a severe eye injury incurred during such sessions.
On my come up in the sport I paid my dues. I only sparred/spar men & they were/are instructed to treat me like an equal. I’m built different
No freebies where I come from.
It doesn’t matter what it looks like from the outside watching me I promise it will feel differently in… pic.twitter.com/GwRhRbXYZ0— Amanda Serrano (@Serranosisters) January 15, 2024
Her determination is palpable, “Lol I had no choice my love. They are skilled fighters I spar with…” she responded to a fan. Undeterred by the rugged terrain of her journey, Serrano’s philosophy remains unwavering: “I’m built different…No freebies where I come from,” she asserted. Her relentless pursuit of excellence redefines the boundaries of what’s possible in the ring.
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What limits will she push next? How will her fearless attitude continue to shape and redefine the norms of boxing?
Watch this story: Why Amanda Serrano’s Fight Against Danila Ramos Be A Historical Feat In Women’s Boxing
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